1980 Fiat Panda vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Fiat Panda. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Fiat Panda would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (288 HP) has 255 more horse power than 1980 Fiat Panda. (33 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1980 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1425 kg more than 1980 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Fiat Panda. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML (440 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 383 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Fiat Panda. (57 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Fiat Panda. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML has automatic transmission and 1980 Fiat Panda has manual transmission. 1980 Fiat Panda will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Fiat Panda | 2005 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Fiat | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Panda | ML |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 770 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 288 HP |
| Torque | 57 Nm | 440 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 58 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 125 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 23 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 2140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 83 L |
